Add another notch to the Wildlands Conservancy’s efforts to preserve natural resources.The non-profit group, based in Emmaus, announced it has purchased 172 acres in East Penn Township, Carbon County, from a private owner. The landowner and price were not disclosed.

The land (pictured above) is located next to the Appalachian Trail, the Lehigh Gap Nature Center and State Game Land 217, according to a press release, and will preserve the scenic beauty of the Kittatinny Ridge.

It is noted for its unique grassland and woodland habitat, serving as a home to several insect species of statewide concern as well as recovering stands of oak, birch and chestnut trees.